Crowning glory replica turns heads in JB

JOHOR BARU: A giant replica of the Johor Ruler’s crown to be placed at the entrance of Istana Bukit Serene is certain to attract admiring glances, especially from motorists along Jalan Skudai, near Danga Bay.

The crown, weighing several tonnes, will be placed on an arch resembling elephant tusks.

It is part of the preparations to mark Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar’s coronation ceremony on May 5.

Motorist Tan Eng Thai, 42, who was on his way to the Sultanah Aminah Hospital, said he was amazed by the size and beauty of the replica. “It is very grand. I decided to stop my car to take pictures of it,” he said.

Another motorist, S. Suresh, 33, said the crown seemed to dazzle in the sunlight.

Replica of the Johor Ruler's Crown.

“I was on my way to work when I saw it. I, too, stopped to take pictures,” he said, hoping that the Johor palace would display the actual crown for Johoreans to view before or after the coronation.

State executive councillor for public works Datuk Hasni Mohammad said the replica was the second one after the one in Muar.

“All the work for the coronation is proceeding as planned. We expect renovations at Istana Besar, Istana Bukit Serene and Royal Polo Club to be completed by the end of April,” he added.

The replica was made by local contractors.